Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but its location along the Northeast Corridor provides travelers with convenient access to some of Amtrak’s busiest destinations. For such a small state, you will find that Amtrak in Rhode Island offers a great starting or ending point for your journey!
Amtrak operates at three train stations in Rhode Island: Providence, Kingston, and Westerly. The Northeast Regional service stops at all three stations, although not every train makes stops at Kingston or Westerly. Additionally, the Acela service serves Providence and connects with the MBTA commuter rail and local RIPTA buses.
From Rhode Island, you can take a direct train to several major cities, including Boston, New Haven, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. Depending on the train, you may also reach destinations in Virginia. While Rhode Island does not offer Amtrak long-distance or sleeping-car service, its frequent corridor trains make it easy to plan day trips, weekend getaways, and connections to the broader Amtrak system.
This guide provides information about Amtrak stations and trains in Rhode Island, including connections to Newport, T.F. Green International Airport, the MBTA commuter rail, and other transportation options.
Amtrak in Rhode Island: Quick Answer
Amtrak has three train stations in Rhode Island:
| Station | Code | Amtrak service |
|---|---|---|
| Providence | PVD | Acela and Northeast Regional |
| Kingston | KIN | Select Northeast Regional trains |
| Westerly | WLY | Select Northeast Regional trains |
Providence is the primary Amtrak station in Rhode Island and the only station in the state served by Acela trains. The Kingston station is conveniently located for accessing the University of Rhode Island, South County, and connections to Newport. The Westerly station serves the southwestern region of Rhode Island, near the Connecticut border.
Trains & Airports
T.F. Green International Airport and Wickford Junction provide passenger rail service; however, they are MBTA commuter rail stations and not Amtrak stations.
Amtrak trains in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is served by two Amtrak services: the Northeast Regional and the Acela Express. For long-distance travel, you can use these trains to connect to other services.
Northeast Regional
The Northeast Regional is not a single train with one specific route and stopping pattern. Instead, it encompasses multiple intercity trains operated by Amtrak along the Northeast Corridor. Some of these trains continue beyond Washington, D.C., to various destinations in Virginia.
Train service from Rhode Island varies based on departure times, endpoints, and stopping patterns.
Northeast Regional trains stop at Providence, Kingston, and Westerly; however, not all trains serve every station in Rhode Island. Some departures may skip either Kingston, Westerly, or both. Therefore, it’s important to check your itinerary before booking and consider if another station might be worth the trip.
Travelers in Rhode Island can reach various destinations depending on the available train services.
- Boston
- New Haven
- New York City
- Newark
- Philadelphia
- Wilmington
- Baltimore
- Washington, DC
- Richmond
- Norfolk
- Newport News
- Roanoke
- Amtrak’s Long-Distance System
Not every Northeast Regional train travels the entire route. Some trains end their journeys in Boston, New York, or Washington, D.C., while others continue to Virginia. You can find information about destinations, departure times, and available accommodations for your trip on the Amtrak website and app.
Northeast Regional trains provide Coach and Business Class seating options. Coach offers spacious seats, electrical outlets, basic Wi-Fi, and luggage storage. Business Class allows for seat selection, provides additional legroom and footrests, and includes a complimentary nonalcoholic beverage.
These trains feature a Quiet Car and a café car that offers light meals, snacks, coffee, soft drinks, beer, wine, and spirits.
For most travelers in Rhode Island, the Northeast Regional is the most practical choice, as it serves all three Amtrak stations and typically costs less than the Acela Express.
When planning your trip, compare Providence, Kingston, and Westerly to find better travel options. A nearby station might offer a more convenient departure time, a lower fare, or additional train choices.
Acela
Acela is Amtrak’s high-speed train that runs through Providence, but it does not stop at Kingston or Westerly. It operates along the Northeast Corridor between Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.
Acela is Amtrak’s premium service on the Northeast Corridor, offering Business Class and First Class seating that includes seat selection.
Business Class includes electrical outlets, Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and access to the Café car. First Class offers priority boarding, additional seating options, and complimentary meal and beverage service at your seat.
While the Acela can save time, shorter trips like Providence to Boston may not show significant differences. It is advisable to compare prices, schedules, and travel times with the Northeast Regional before making a booking.
Rhode Island Amtrak stations
Providence Amtrak Station – PVD
- Address: 100 Gaspee Street, Providence, RI 02903
- Trains: Acela and Northeast Regional
- Amtrak/MBTA Station
- Station Building with waiting room
Providence is the main Amtrak station in Rhode Island, making it the most convenient choice for travelers heading to downtown Providence. Located close to the Rhode Island State House, the station is within walking distance or a short ride from downtown hotels, restaurants, museums, and attractions.
The station features an enclosed waiting area and connects to the MBTA commuter rail and RIPTA local buses. It also offers parking, taxis, rideshare pickup, and nearby rental car options, although downtown traffic, construction, and parking arrangements may vary.
Providence is the only station in Rhode Island served by the Acela service and typically has more Amtrak departures than both Kingston and Westerly. It is the best station for connecting to commuter rail services heading toward Boston, T.F. Green International Airport, or Wickford Junction.
Providence Station connections
The MBTA Commuter Rail operates from Providence Station, with trains heading north toward Boston. Additionally, some trains travel south to T.F. Green International Airport and Wickford Junction. Please note that MBTA tickets are separate from Amtrak tickets and can be purchased through the MBTA mTicket app or other available fare options.
RIPTA buses operate at Providence Station and the nearby Kennedy Plaza. From Kennedy Plaza, travelers can access T.F. Green Airport, Newport, Narragansett, and various other destinations throughout Rhode Island. Since Kennedy Plaza is just a few blocks from the train station, be sure to allow enough time to walk between the two if you need to make a connection.
Amtrak provides connecting bus services from Providence to Fall River, New Bedford, and Worcester in Massachusetts. These connections must be booked as part of an Amtrak itinerary and cannot be reserved separately as bus-only trips.
Kingston Amtrak Station – KIN
- Address: 1 Railroad Avenue, West Kingston, RI 02892
- Train: Northeast Regional
- Staffed Station with waiting room
Kingston Station serves South County, Rhode Island, and is a convenient option for travelers visiting the University of Rhode Island, South Kingstown, Narragansett, and the surrounding areas.
Although named for it, the station is actually in West Kingston. This historic wood-frame station has been serving the region since 1875 and includes an enclosed waiting area.
Kingston is served by some Northeast Regional trains, but not all of them stop there. Providence typically provides more departure options, so use station code KIN to compare the available trains for your travel date.
Parking is available, but Amtrak warns that spaces are limited due to construction. Please check Amtrak’s station alerts before driving to Kingston, especially if you plan to leave your vehicle overnight.
Kingston Station connections
RIPTA Routes 64 and 66 serve Kingston Station. Route 64 connects the station to the University of Rhode Island area and Newport, although schedules and connection times may vary.
Amtrak provides a reservation-required car or van service between Kingston Station and Newport. It is important to arrange this connection in advance rather than expect a vehicle to be waiting when your train arrives.
Ferry connections near Kingston
Ferries do not depart directly from Kingston Station, but the station can be useful for reaching several Rhode Island ferry terminals.
The Point Judith ferry terminal in Galilee is about a 20-minute drive from Kingston Station and provides service to Block Island. Travelers using public transportation can connect to RIPTA Route 69 via the University of Rhode Island area, although this may require a transfer and careful planning.
Amtrak offers seasonal ferry service to Martha’s Vineyard from the Quonset Point terminal in North Kingstown. Be sure to check the ferry schedule and confirm transportation between Kingston Station and Quonset Point before booking your trip.
Kingston does not provide checked baggage service or baggage storage, so travelers must handle their own luggage on and off the train.
Westerly Amtrak Station – WLY
- Address: 14 Railroad Avenue, Westerly, RI 02891
- Train: Northeast Regional
- Platform station with Shelter
Westerly Station serves southwestern Rhode Island, close to the Connecticut border. It is the most convenient station for travelers staying in Westerly, Watch Hill, Charlestown, or nearby coastal communities.
The station building was constructed in 1912, but Amtrak currently describes Westerly as a platform with a shelter instead of a fully staffed station with a waiting room. Plan accordingly for cold, rainy, or hot weather.
Westerly is served by select Northeast Regional trains, but fewer may stop here than in Providence. Some departures pass through Westerly without stopping, so be sure to check the schedule for WLY before making transportation or parking arrangements.
Westerly does not provide checked baggage service. Please pack your belongings accordingly when boarding and exiting the train.
Which Amtrak station in Rhode Island should you use?
The best station depends on where you are going and which trains operate at the time you need.
Choose Providence when:
- You want the most Amtrak departure choices.
- You are visiting downtown Providence.
- You want to ride Acela.
- You need an MBTA commuter rail connection.
- You are connecting to T.F. Green International Airport.
- You are traveling without a car and want more local transit options.
Choose Kingston when:
- You are visiting the University of Rhode Island or South County.
- You are staying near South Kingstown or Narragansett.
- You want a bus or prearranged car connection to Newport.
- The available train schedule works better than the one in Providence.
Choose Westerly when:
- You are staying in southwestern Rhode Island.
- You are visiting Westerly or Watch Hill.
- You live near the Rhode Island–Connecticut border.
- You can work with the station’s more limited train schedule.
Before booking, compare all three stations. Rhode Island is small enough that driving or taking a rideshare to another station could provide a better fare or departure time.
Amtrak to Newport, Rhode Island
Amtrak trains do not travel directly to Newport, but you have several ways to combine the train with a ferry, bus, or car connection.
Providence to Newport by ferry
During summer and early fall, Seastreak operates a passenger ferry service between Providence and Newport. Amtrak recognizes Newport with the seasonal connection code NWP, but NWP refers to a ferry terminal, not a railroad station.
The Providence ferry terminal is located at 25 India Street and is separate from the Amtrak station. A complimentary seasonal shuttle connects Providence Station, downtown stops, and the ferry terminal.
In 2026, the Providence–Newport ferry is scheduled to operate from June 12 to October 12. Since dates and schedules can change each season, please verify the ferry and shuttle schedules before planning your Amtrak trip.
When booking, search for Newport, Rhode Island, using NWP to see whether Amtrak offers a combined itinerary for your date. You can also book the train and ferry separately, but leave a comfortable connection in case your train is delayed.
Providence to Newport by bus
RIPTA Route 60 operates between downtown Providence and the Newport Transportation Center. This can be a useful alternative when the seasonal ferry is not operating. The bus uses Kennedy Plaza in Providence rather than departing directly from the Amtrak platform, so account for the walk or local connection between Providence Station and Kennedy Plaza. (RIPTA)
Kingston to Newport
From Kingston Station, travelers can use RIPTA Route 64 or arrange the reservation-required car or van service listed by Amtrak. Compare the bus schedule with your train arrival time before choosing Kingston specifically for a trip to Newport. (RIPTA)
Amtrak and T.F. Green International Airport
Amtrak trains do not have stops at T.F. Green International Airport.
T.F. Green Airport features a commuter rail station operated by the MBTA, connected to the airport terminal via the InterLink facility and a pedestrian skywalk. This station is not an Amtrak station, even though the tracks are part of the same Northeast Corridor used by Amtrak trains.
To reach the airport after arriving by Amtrak, you can get off in Providence and use:
- An MBTA commuter train runs when the schedule works.
- RIPTA Route 66, which serves Providence Station and T.F. Green Airport.
- A RIPTA bus connection through Kennedy Plaza.
- A taxi or rideshare.
The current MBTA service south of Providence is more limited than the service between Providence and Boston, and it operates primarily on weekdays. Be sure to check the schedule for your specific travel day instead of assuming a train will be available. Additionally, RIPTA Route 66 offers another transportation option, currently serving Providence Station, T.F. Green Airport, the University of Rhode Island (URI), and Wickford Junction.
Allow ample time before your flight. Amtrak delays, commuter rail schedules, local traffic, and navigating the airport can all require additional time.
MBTA commuter rail in Rhode Island
The MBTA Commuter Rail serves Rhode Island on the Providence/Stoughton Line, with stations located in Rhode Island including:
Only Providence Station is served by Amtrak. Pawtucket/Central Falls, T.F. Green, and Wickford Junction are not Amtrak stations.
The MBTA can be less expensive than Amtrak for certain trips between Providence and Boston, but the two services operate differently. MBTA trains make more local stops and typically take longer to reach their destination. In contrast, Amtrak generally offers a faster journey, with reserved seating, a café car, Wi-Fi, and more ample luggage storage.
Compare the schedules and prices of both services instead of assuming one is always better.
Seating options from Rhode Island
Northeast Regional Coach
Coach is the standard option and typically the least expensive. The seats offer more legroom than most airline seats and include tray tables, electrical outlets, and basic Wi-Fi access.
Coach passengers can also access the café car and Quiet Car. Depending on the train’s arrangement, seats may face either forward or backward.
Northeast Regional Business Class
Business Class provides seat selection, extra legroom, footrests, a more flexible ticket, and a complimentary nonalcoholic beverage. It might be worth considering when Coach is crowded or when the price difference is minimal.
Acela Business Class
Business Class is the primary accommodation on Acela trains. It features assigned seating, power outlets, Wi-Fi, and access to the Café car. Acela does not provide traditional Coach seating.
Acela First Class
First Class includes priority boarding and complimentary meal and beverage service at your seat. Additionally, it provides access to eligible Amtrak lounges at select stations, although Providence does not have a Metropolitan Lounge.
Food on Rhode Island Amtrak Trains
The Northeast Regional and Acela trains provide food and beverages for purchase, though the type of service may vary between trains.
Northeast Regional trains offer a café with sandwiches, wraps, snacks, breakfast items, coffee, soft drinks, beer, wine, and spirits. Menu selections and availability may change.
Acela Business Class passengers can purchase food, snacks, and beverages. Depending on the train, service may be available from Cafe Acela or through an onboard cart. Acela First Class offers complimentary at-seat meal and beverage service.
Neither the Northeast Regional nor Acela offers traditional dining or Flexible Dining services like those found on some Amtrak long-distance trains.
You are allowed to bring your own food and nonalcoholic drinks on board. Bringing a snack and a refillable water bottle is advisable in case the café or cart is busy, temporarily unavailable, or does not offer what you want.
If you want to learn more about café cars, check out my post on Amtrak café cars.
Luggage on Amtrak in Rhode Island
Amtrak permits each passenger to bring the following items on board at no extra charge:
- One personal item weighing up to 25 pounds and measuring no more than 14 x 11 x 7 inches
- Two carry-on bags, each weighing up to 50 pounds and measuring no more than 28 x 22 x 14 inches
A personal item, like a purse or small backpack, should fit under your seat. Larger carry-on bags can be stored in the overhead bins or luggage racks. Remember that you are responsible for handling and storing your bags, so be sure to pack only what you can manage on your own.
Providence, Kingston, and Westerly do not provide checked baggage service. You should plan to carry all your belongings onto and off the train yourself, including when transferring to local buses, commuter trains, ferries, taxis, or rideshares.
Amtrak’s carry-on allowance is generous, but you don’t need to use all of it. Packing light can simplify boarding, finding storage space, and traveling between the station and your final destination.
Here is Amtrak’s latest baggage policy, along with information on restricted and prohibited items.
Checking Bags After a Connection
This option will not be available if you are traveling to Rhode Island.
You might have the option to check your bags later in your trip if you connect at a station that offers checked baggage services. For instance, a passenger connecting in Washington, DC, and traveling to Chicago on the Cardinal may be able to check their bags at Washington Union Station for the remainder of their journey. The Cardinal provides checked baggage services at several staffed stations along its route.
Both the connecting train and your destination station must permit checked baggage. Additionally, you should allow enough time to visit the baggage counter before the cutoff. Washington Union Station recommends that you arrive at least 45 minutes before departure if you are checking bags or require passenger assistance.
A 45-minute connection might not be enough, particularly if your arriving train is delayed. Whenever possible, allow extra time and confirm checked-baggage arrangements with Amtrak before traveling.
Bringing a bike or a pet
The Northeast Regional service permits small dogs and cats on eligible trips, provided that a pet reservation is made in advance. Please note that space for pets is limited, and they must be kept in an approved carrier. Additionally, the Acela service allows eligible pets in Business Class. Be sure to check Amtrak’s current pet policy, and if you have a service or comfort animal, please review the specific rules before arriving at the station.
Bicycles are allowed as carry-on items on select Northeast Regional trains, but fees and reservations may be required. The availability of bicycle space varies based on the train equipment and the station. To ensure you can bring your bike, it’s best to add it during the booking process rather than waiting until you arrive at the platform. For the most up-to-date information on bringing a bicycle on Amtrak, please check their website.
Beginner tips for taking Amtrak in Rhode Island
Check your station code
Providence is abbreviated as PVD, Kingston as KIN, and Westerly as WLY. Newport’s NWP code signifies a seasonal ferry connection rather than an Amtrak train station.
Where to Buy Amtrak Tickets
You can buy Amtrak tickets via the Amtrak website, mobile app, by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL, at staffed Amtrak stations, or from available ticket kiosks. Some travel agents can also book Amtrak tickets for you.
For most travelers, using the Amtrak website or app is the simplest option because it lets you compare departure times, fares, and available accommodations before booking.
It’s advisable to purchase your ticket before arriving at the station, and the earlier you buy it, the better. Amtrak trains can sell out, and buying a ticket after boarding is generally not permitted or may not be possible. Booking in advance is especially important when traveling on weekends, during holidays, or at other busy times.
Do not assume every train stops everywhere.
Providence receives the most train service. Several Northeast Regional trains skip Kingston and Westerly, so check your exact itinerary.
Compare Providence with Kingston or Westerly
A nearby station might offer a better fare or schedule. Explore all reasonable options before confirming your booking.
Leave time for separate connections.
MBTA, RIPTA, ferries, and most local transportation have separate schedules and tickets. Avoid booking tight connections, especially when traveling to an airport or a ferry terminal.
Arrive early enough to get oriented.
Arriving 30 minutes before departure allows time to locate the platform, check the departure board, and address any parking or ticket issues.
Keep your ticket available.
You can use the Amtrak app, the barcode from your confirmation email, or a printed ticket. Conductors typically scan tickets after boarding.
Check your train before leaving.
Use the Amtrak app or website to check your train status. Also, review station and transit alerts if your trip includes MBTA, RIPTA, a ferry, or construction near the station. There are several other methods you can use to track Amtrak trains.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amtrak in Rhode Island
How many Amtrak stations are in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island has three Amtrak stations: Providence (PVD), Kingston (KIN), and Westerly (WLY). Providence is the largest and busiest Amtrak station in the state.
Which Amtrak trains serve Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is served by the Northeast Regional and Acela trains. The Northeast Regional stops in Providence, Kingston, and Westerly, while Acela only stops in Providence.
Does every Northeast Regional stop at Kingston and Westerly?
No. Some Northeast Regional trains may skip Kingston, Westerly, or both stations. Providence has the most service, so check your exact departure time before deciding which Rhode Island station to use.
Does Acela stop at Kingston or Westerly?
No, Providence is the only station in Rhode Island served by Acela. Travelers using Kingston or Westerly must book a Northeast Regional train or travel to Providence to board Acela.
Can I take Amtrak directly to Newport, Rhode Island?
Amtrak trains do not travel directly to Newport. However, during the summer and early fall, Amtrak offers a seasonal ferry connection between Providence and Newport, recognized under the station code NWP. Additionally, travelers can use RIPTA Route 64 to get between Kingston Station and Newport.
Does Amtrak stop at T.F. Green International Airport?
No, the rail station at T.F. Green International Airport is served by the MBTA Commuter Rail, not Amtrak. Amtrak passengers can travel to Providence and then reach the airport via MBTA commuter rail, RIPTA bus, taxi, or rideshare.
Which Amtrak station in Rhode Island should I use?
Providence is often the best choice for travelers heading downtown, taking the Acela, connecting with the MBTA commuter rail, or seeking the most extensive selection of Amtrak departures.
Kingston is an excellent choice for travelers visiting the University of Rhode Island, South County, Narragansett, or Newport. Westerly is typically the most convenient option for those traveling to southwestern Rhode Island or communities near the Connecticut border.
The best train station for your trip depends on several factors, including your destination, train schedules, ticket prices, parking availability, and transportation options to and from the station. Before booking, be sure to compare all three stations, as another nearby station might offer a more convenient departure time or a lower fare.
Can I transfer between Amtrak and the MBTA Commuter Rail in Rhode Island?
Both Amtrak and the MBTA Commuter Rail service Providence Station. Please remember that you must purchase a separate ticket for the MBTA commuter train. Other MBTA stations in Rhode Island, such as Pawtucket/Central Falls, T.F. Green Airport, and Wickford Junction, do not offer Amtrak service.
Does Rhode Island have an Amtrak long-distance train?
Currently, no long-distance Amtrak trains are stopping in Rhode Island. However, travelers can take the Northeast Regional or Acela services to connect to long-distance trains at stations in Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, or Washington, D.C. When making a booking, simply enter your departure station and destination into the Amtrak system, and it will show you the available options. Please note that you will need to transfer trains.
Final Thoughts on Amtrak in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s Amtrak network may be small, but its location along the Northeast Corridor gives travelers access to numerous destinations, and even more with a transfer!
Providence has the most Amtrak departures, including Acela service, and offers the best connections to public transportation. Kingston is ideal for reaching South County, the University of Rhode Island, Narragansett, Newport, and nearby ferry connections. Westerly can be a convenient option for travelers in southwestern Rhode Island, as long as its more limited train schedule aligns with their travel plans.
Amtrak is one of the easiest ways to travel between Rhode Island and destinations such as Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. However, because these are reserved trains, it’s important to plan rather than arriving at the station expecting to board the next train.
Before booking, compare the schedules and fares from Providence, Kingston, and Westerly whenever possible. A different station may offer a better departure time, a lower fare, or easier access to transportation to and from the station.
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